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Maestro Jrnys

Tajikistan Trails (9 days)

Mountain and Lakes with MonkeyInc

LED BY

Ankita Kumar

TRIP DATES

02 May 26 - 10 May 26

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 2,100

OFF-BEAT

ADVENTURE

CULTURE

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Bookings Closed

Tajikistan Trails (9 days): Mountain and Lakes with MonkeyInc

TRIP DATES

02 May 26-10 May 26

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 2,100

Bookings Closed

About this Jrny

Get ready to lose your heart to Tajikistan — a wild mix of mountain magic, village vibes, and endless “Wait, is this even real?” moments. We start off easing into Central Asia’s rhythm in Tashkent, then cross over to Khujand, where history hits different — think ancient forts and bustling bazaars.

Then it’s all about the Fann Mountains, and trust us, they’re every kind of stunning. At the Seven Lakes, expect shades of blue you didn’t know existed, tea with locals, and soaking up that peaceful mountain energy. From there, we roll on to the Alauddin Lakes, hike, picnic, maybe even dip our toes if we’re feeling brave, and crash at Artuch Base Camp under a sky full of stars.

Next up — Iskanderkul, where alpine drama meets chill adventure. We’re chasing waterfalls, walking along Snake Lake, and refuelling with hearty Tajik comfort food. Finally, Dushanbe turns the tempo up — all grand mosques, colourful bazaars, and coffee breaks in leafy parks.

This isn’t just another trip — it’s a full-blown Tajikistan takeover, Monkey Inc style: spontaneous, soulful, filled with moments that remind you why you fell in love with travel in the first place.

Highlights

Anki's Monkey Vibes!
Discover Khujand’s heritage through its museum, ancient fort, and bustling streets
Explore Penjikent villages and admire the serene beauty of Seven Lakes
Adventurous 4x4 jeep rides to Singing Dunes and Kaindy lake
Hiking around the stunning scenery of Seven lakes and Alauddin’s four lakes
Experience Iskanderkul’s landscapes, visit Snake Lake, and hike Fann Niagara waterfall
Explore Dushanbe’s Grand Mosque, lively Mehrgon Bazaar, and ornate Kokhi Navruz teahouse

Inclusions

Meals as per itinerary

Boutique Stays

Internal Transport

English Speaking Guides

Airport Transfers

Visa Fees

Maestro's Expertise

Led by Jrny Maestro

Ankita Kumar

Adventurer. In love with bright colours, colourful tights, strange foods and chilling out! ❤️

8 Jrnys

10 Happy Travellers

Overview

Dates

2May’26 - 10May’26

Suggested Ages

18+

Duration

9 days

Activity Level

Moderate

Group Size

1 - 12

Travel Style

comfort

Price per person

$2,100

Itinerary

Sat 02 May

Arrival in Tashkent

Sun 03 May

Tashkent → Khujand: Into Tajikistan

Mon 04 May

Khujand - Seven Lakes: Mountain Magic

Tue 05 May

A Day in Seven Lakes: Colour Changing Waters

Wed 06 May

To Alauddin lakes: The Fann Mountains

Thu 07 May

To Iskanderkul lake: Alexanders Lake

Fri 08 May

Iskanderkul - Dushanbe

Sat 09 May

A Day in Dushanbe

Sun 10 May

Depart Dushanbe

Stay

CHECK IN 02 May

1 N

CHECK OUT 03 May

The Ramada Encore by Wyndham

Tashkent

CHECK IN 03 May

1 N

CHECK OUT 04 May

Parliament Palace hotel

Khujand

CHECK IN 04 May

2 N

CHECK OUT 06 May

Panjakent Plaza Hotel

Penjikent

CHECK IN 06 May

1 N

CHECK OUT 07 May

Vertical Camp, Alauddin

Artuch Camp

CHECK IN 07 May

1 N

CHECK OUT 08 May

Zumrad Lake Camp

Iskanderkul

CHECK IN 08 May

2 N

CHECK OUT 10 May

Rumi Hotel

Dushanbe

Your Daily Itinerary

Sat 02 May

Arrival in Tashkent

Arrive at Tashkent International Airport (TAS), where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, take it easy — unwind from the journey or step out for a gentle first taste of Tashkent’s mix of modern streets, leafy boulevards, and old-world charm. Grab a coffee, wander a nearby avenue, or simply soak in the calm, welcoming vibe of Uzbekistan’s capital. Rest up — tomorrow, your Tajikistan adventure begins.

Meals included: None

Activities

Meet and Greet in Tashkent

00:00 - 23:59

Arrive at Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (Airport code: TAS). Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs, please look for JrnyOn representative holding a placard with the JrnyOn logo. Proceed to your hotel in a pre-arranged transfer vehicle.

Duration: 30 minutes
Distance: 13.4 kms / 8.3 miles

Sun 03 May

Tashkent → Khujand: Into Tajikistan

Today we hit the road from Tashkent to Khujand, crossing the border into Tajikistan through dramatic mountain passes and sweeping valley views. It’s an easy, scenic drive — the kind where every bend looks like a new postcard. Khujand itself is a gem: over 2,500 years old and believed to be founded by Alexander the Great during his march across Central Asia. No big deal… just casual world-history bragging rights.

Once in the city, we dive straight into Panjshanbe Bazaar, so lively and colourful that locals swear it “has its own heartbeat.” Expect stacks of fruit, swirling spices, smiling vendors, and the kind of market chaos that feels alive in the best way.

We continue to the Historical Museum of the Sughd Region, a perfect intro to the culture, kingdoms, and legends that shaped this corner of the Silk Road. Then it’s on to the impressive Khujand Fort, where the rebuilt fortress walls overlook the mighty Syr Darya River — once a major trade artery flowing all the way to Kazakhstan.

We end the day with dinner at a local restaurant, tasting Tajik dishes and soaking up Khujand’s warm, relaxed hospitality. A perfect first chapter to your Tajikistan journey.

Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner

Tashkent → Khujand: Into Tajikistan - Day 2 image

Activities

Drive Tashkent to Khujand

08:30 - 11:30

Drive Tashkent to Khujand, crossing scenic valleys and mountain passes. Enjoy glimpses of rural Tajik life.

Duration: 3.5 hrs
Distance: 166 kms / 103 miles

Explore Khujand city

11:30 - 14:00

Explore Khujand, one of Central Asia’s oldest cities, beautifully set along the Syr Darya River. Discover its vibrant Panjshanbe Bazaar, the heart of local life, and visit historic landmarks like the Sheikh Muslihiddin Mausoleum and Khujand Fortress. With its rich Silk Road heritage and warm Tajik hospitality, Khujand offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and charm.

Historical Museum of Sughd

15:00 - 16:30

Located inside the reconstructed fortress, the museum offers a chronological journey through the region's past — from ancient Sogdiana to Soviet times. It includes archaeological finds, ethnographic displays, and impressive models of old Khujand.

Khujand Fortress

16:30 - 18:00

Khujand Fortress is an ancient stronghold over 2,500 years old, located in the heart of Khujand. It houses the Historical Museum of Sughd, displaying artifacts and local heritage. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Syr Darya River from its walls.

Mon 04 May

Khujand - Seven Lakes: Mountain Magic

After breakfast, we hit the road toward the legendary Seven Lakes, a chain of turquoise, teal, jade, and sapphire-coloured lakes hidden deep in the Fann Mountains. Even though they’re all fed by the same river, each lake has its own unique shade — locals swear the colours shift depending on “the mood of the mountains.” It’s one of Tajikistan’s most surreal natural wonders, and every bend in the road feels like a new reveal.

We stop for a simple, hearty lunch at a local café — the kind of place where mountain air makes everything taste better. In the afternoon, we wander through nearby villages where life moves slow: kids waving at passing cars, women baking bread in outdoor clay ovens, and families offering mulberry juice with a smile. Many homes here double as traditional homestays, where travellers sleep on floor mattresses, wake to goat bells, and drink tea overlooking the valleys.

Later, we continue toward Penjikent, an ancient Silk Road town once known for poets, merchants, and vibrant bazaars. Arrive and check in at your hotel, then enjoy dinner at a cosy local restaurant — warm Tajik hospitality guaranteed.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Khujand - Seven Lakes: Mountain Magic - Day 3 image

Activities

Drive Khujand to Seven Lakes

07:00 - 14:00

Drive to Marguzor Lakes, surrounded by stunning mountains. Explore the Seven Lakes Valley, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant colours. Enjoy breathtaking views and immerse in the serene beauty of this natural wonder.

Duration: 6-7 hours
Distance: 250 kms / 155 miles

Local Villages, Seven Lakes

15:00 - 16:00

Explore local villages, meet friendly residents, and discover age-old customs. Wander through narrow lanes, soak in the rustic charm, and experience everyday life in a traditional setting.

Drive to Penjikent

16:00 - 18:00

Drive through scenic mountain passes to reach Penjikent, a town rich in history. Explore ancient ruins, stroll through lively bazaars, and soak in the charm of Tajik culture and tradition.

Duration: 1.5 hours
Distance: 55 kms / 34.17 miles

Tue 05 May

A Day in Seven Lakes: Colour Changing Waters

Today is yours to soak in the magic of the Seven Lakes, one of the most breathtaking corners of the Fann Mountains. The water here shifts between shades of emerald, sapphire, and teal — like nature couldn’t decide on just one colour palette. Take the day at your own pace: hike along rugged mountain trails linking the lakes, each turn offering a fresh view and a new shade of blue.

Prefer something calmer? Hop into a boat and drift across the glassy surface, watching the peaks reflect perfectly in the still water — it’s the kind of scene that makes you forget the rest of the world exists. And if you're feeling a little adventurous, saddle up for a horseback ride along ancient trails used for centuries by shepherds and traders.

Whether you’re hiking, riding, or just sitting by the shore with your feet in the water, this is a day to let the mountains slow you down. Pure, untouched Tajikistan at its best.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

A Day in Seven Lakes: Colour Changing Waters - Day 4 image

Activities

Explore Seven Lakes

09:00 - 16:00

Seven Lakes offers a serene experience through stunning landscapes featuring crystal-clear lakes, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Each lake holds its own charm, creating a peaceful and picturesque trail perfect for nature lovers and photographers. The serene atmosphere and tranquility of the lakes provide a refreshing escape, ideal for leisurely strolls or meditative moments amidst nature.

Wed 06 May

To Alauddin lakes: The Fann Mountains

After breakfast, we roll toward the jaw-dropping Alauddin Lakes, one of those places that makes you question your camera settings. Locals call them the “eyes of the mountains” because the colours literally change with the sky — silver at sunrise, neon turquoise by noon, deep sapphire by evening. Trekkers always swear their photos look fake, even when they’re totally unedited.

We spend the morning hiking around the chain of four lakes, each one looking like it was painted in a different shade of blue by a moody mountain artist. The air is crisp, the reflections are insane, and every corner feels like a postcard someone forgot to mail. Lunch is a mountain picnic by the water — simple, delicious, and boosted by 10/10 scenery.

In the afternoon, we head to our camp, the kind of place where climbers swap stories, boots dry in the sun, and every direction points to a new adventure. As the light softens, we settle in for a warm Tajik dinner — hearty dishes, mountain vibes, and the perfect wind-down to a day that feels like Mother Nature showing off.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

To Alauddin lakes: The Fann Mountains - Day 5 image

Activities

Drive to Alauddin Lakes

08:00 - 12:00

After breakfast, drive to Alauddin Lakes

Duration: 4 hours
Distance: 120km/ 75 miles

Explore Alauddin Lakes with short hike

12:00 - 14:00

Discover the enchanting Alauddin Lakes on a short yet rewarding hike through breathtaking mountain landscapes. Surrounded by rugged peaks and lush greenery, the crystal-clear waters reflect the pristine beauty of nature. Perfect for adventure seekers, the trail offers serene vistas and tranquility.

Drive to Camp

15:00 - 16:00

Embark on a scenic drive to your camp, a route offering breathtaking views of the Fann Mountains. Pass through lush valleys, winding roads, and charming villages, soaking in the region's natural beauty.

Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 140 kms / 87 miles

Thu 07 May

To Iskanderkul lake: Alexanders Lake

After breakfast, we twist our way through winding mountain roads to reach Iskanderkul Lake, one of the brightest stars of the Fann Mountains. Sitting high at 2,200m, this lake is ridiculously beautiful — a perfect turquoise triangle tucked between jagged cliffs and silent forests, like someone dropped a giant blue crystal into the mountains. It’s named after Alexander the Great (“Iskander”), and locals say he watered his horse here… honestly, not hard to imagine when you see how refreshing this place looks.

We check into our accommodation and take a short walk to the “Niagara of the Fanns”, a roaring waterfall blasting through a narrow gorge. It’s loud, dramatic, and totally worth the spray in your face. Nearby is the mysterious Snake Lake, calm, green, and wrapped in local legends — some say it has healing powers, others say it hides secrets. Either way, it’s an atmospheric spot that feels straight out of a mountain fairytale.

As evening settles, we move to a simple eco-camp by the river. Think wooden cabins, hot meals, and crackling firelight reflecting off the water. The stars here look close enough to touch, and the fresh mountain air hits reset on your soul.

A quiet, magical end to a day packed with nature’s best flexes.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

To Iskanderkul lake: Alexanders Lake - Day 6 image

Activities

Drive Artuch Camp to Iskanderkul

08:00 - 12:00

The drive from Artuch Camp to Iskanderkul offers stunning views of the Fann Mountains, passing through scenic valleys and charming villages.

Duration: 2.5 hours
Distance: 70 kms (43 miles)

Lake Iskanderkul

12:00 - 14:00

Iskanderkul Lake, nestled in the Fann Mountains, is a stunning turquoise glacial lake surrounded by dramatic peaks. Famous for its natural beauty and legends linked to Alexander the Great, it’s a popular spot for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nearby waterfalls.

Snake Lake

14:00 - 15:30

Snake Lake, located near Iskanderkul in the Fann Mountains, is a small, peaceful lake surrounded by reeds. It’s named after the legends of water snakes said to inhabit its waters and offers beautiful panoramic views from nearby viewpoints.

Fann's Waterfall

15:30 - 17:00

Fann's Waterfall, also known as the "Niagara of the Fann Mountains," is a majestic 38-meter cascade formed by the outflow of Iskanderkul Lake. Tucked within a narrow rocky gorge, it offers a rewarding short hike and a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Fri 08 May

Iskanderkul - Dushanbe

After breakfast, we leave the mountain magic of Iskanderkul and cruise toward Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s elegant, leafy capital framed by the Hissar Mountains. The drive itself is gorgeous — rolling hills, winding passes, and sudden city views that appear like a mirage after days in the wilderness.

We kick things off with the monumental Dushanbe Grand Mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia. Its domes, courtyards, and intricate detailing are stunning — the scale alone makes you stop and stare. Then it’s off to Mehrgon Bazaar, a bright, buzzing maze of stalls packed with spices, dried fruits, sweets, embroidered hats, and pretty much everything you can imagine. Tajiks say if you can’t find it at Mehrgon… it probably doesn’t exist.

Next, we visit the unbelievably ornate Kokhi Navruz Palace — a masterpiece of Tajik craftsmanship. Every corner is covered in carved wood, mirrored halls, colourful mosaics, and chandeliers that look like they belong in a fairytale. We slow down here for a cup of tea in its beautiful teahouse, soaking up the artistry.

We end the day with dinner at a local restaurant — warm Tajik hospitality, hearty dishes, and your last night in a country that’s shown you mountains, lakes, legends, and more beauty than you expected.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Activities

Drive Iskanderkul to Dushanbe

08:00 - 11:30

The drive from Iskanderkul to Dushanbe offers a scenic journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Fann Mountains, featuring winding roads and stunning mountain views.

Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 135 kms (84 miles)

Dushanbe Grand Mosque

11:30 - 13:30

Step into the grandeur of the Dushanbe Grand Mosque, one of Central Asia’s largest. Admire its elegant white marble, towering minarets, and intricate Persian-style mosaics. Feel the serenity as you stroll through vast courtyards and marvel at its spiritual and architectural beauty.

Green Bazaar (Mehrgon Market)

14:30 - 16:00

A lively market selling everything from dried fruit and spices to carpets and traditional clothing — perfect for experiencing local life and souvenir hunting.

Kokhi Navruz Palace

16:00 - 17:30

Kokhi Navruz is a stunning cultural complex in Dushanbe, originally built as a teahouse, featuring intricate wood carvings, hand-painted ceilings, and traditional Tajik design. It now serves as a grand venue for events, offering a glimpse into the country's rich artistic heritage.

Sat 09 May

A Day in Dushanbe

We kick off the day in Somoni Monument Square and Rudaki Park, the elegant, fountain-filled heart of Dushanbe. This is where Tajikistan shows off its national pride — golden statues, manicured gardens, flower beds that look like they were arranged with tweezers, and locals out for slow morning strolls. It’s the city at its softest and prettiest.

Next, we dive into Tajikistan’s ancient past at the National Museum of Antiquities, home to one of the coolest artefacts in the entire region: the 13-meter-long reclining Buddha from Ajina-Teppa, dating back to the 7th century. It’s massive, serene, and honestly worth the visit all on its own. The museum’s collection of Silk Road treasures gives you a deeper sense of just how old — and layered — this country really is.

We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (expect hearty, flavour-packed Tajik dishes), and the afternoon is yours. Wander Dushanbe’s leafy boulevards, shop for handmade crafts, sip tea at a pretty café, or just relax and let the city’s laid-back vibe wash over you. Think of it as the perfect slow ending to an adventure that has been anything but ordinary.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Activities

The Monument of Ismoili Somoni

09:00 - 11:00

The Monument of Ismoili Somoni, located in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, is a symbol of national pride and the architectural centerpiece of the city. It honors Ismoili Somoni, the founder of the Samanid Empire, and stands at 165 feet tall, featuring a gold-domed tower surrounded by stunning gardens. The monument showcases traditional Tajik Islamic design elements, representing the rich history and culture of the region.

The Tajik National Museum of Antiquities

11:00 - 13:00

The Tajik National Museum of Antiquities showcases a rich history of Tajikistan, featuring ancient artifacts, sculptures, and cultural relics that highlight the region's heritage from early civilizations to the Silk Road era.

Sun 10 May

Depart Dushanbe

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Dushanbe. Enjoy a smooth transfer to the airport, watching the last glimpses of the city roll by — leafy boulevards, pastel buildings, and the Hissar Mountains framing the skyline one last time. It’s the perfect moment to replay the journey in your mind: the lakes that looked too blue to be real, the ancient cities that felt like movie sets, the markets buzzing with colour, and the unforgettable warmth of Tajik hospitality.

Your adventure ends here, but Tajikistan has a way of sticking with you — in stories, photos, and those “you had to be there” moments that never quite fit into words. From alpine peaks to Silk Road legends, this country leaves its mark on every traveller.

Meals included: Breakfast

Activities

Depart from Dushanbe

06:00 - 23:59

Today your JrnyOn journey comes to an end. Head to the Dushanbe International Airport (Airport Code: DYU) with a pre-arranged transfer for your flight back home.

Duration: 10 min
Distance: 2.5 kms / 1.5 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

- You are passionate about the people and cultural heritage of a place, and are keen to explore them thoughtfully, beyond the typical tourist trail.

- You’ve always wanted to experience a place through the eyes of a localite, and interact with them more closely.

- You geek out on local food, and are always on the lookout to try new, lesser-known dishes that deserve more of the spotlight.

- You are excited to forge meaningful connections with like-minded travellers, who share the same passion for conscious and sustainable travel as you.

- You are not the kind of tourist seeking only luxurious comfort, and are open to getting your hands dirty while on the adventure!

- International and Domestic flights

- Visa fees for Uzbekistan

- Alcoholic beverages

- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, laundry, tips for guides and drivers)

- Camera/video charges during sightseeing

- Tips for guides and drivers

- Additional meals not mentioned in the itinerary

Yes, Ankita Kumar, aka Monkey Inc will be travelling on this trip.

The tour begins in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and ends in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Arrival: Tashkent International Airport (Code: TAS)

Departure: Dushanbe International Airport (Code: DYU)

All foreign travellers will require a valid passport. The passport should have a validity for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. All travellers will require a visa for entry into Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. For Uzbekistan: you can apply for e-visa online at e-visa.gov.uz, Cost is USD 20. For Tajikistan: JrnyOn will coordinate and apply for the visa. It is recommended to check the latest requirements on the official Embassy website. Each passenger must be personally responsible for ensuring she/he possesses valid travel documentation. If you would like assistance with your visa, please write to [email protected]

Travel insurance is mandatory to protect against loss of personal valuables, illness or unforeseen late cancellations. While suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control.

No mandatory vaccinations are required. We advise you to check with your doctor in case you have any personal requirements. Also check with your local clinic or doctor a few weeks before the trip for any change in recommendations.

Yes, airport transfers are included in this tour. These transfers will be shared with you before your travel.

There are no activities scheduled for the first day. The standard check-in time at the hotel would be 1400 hours, and you can plan your arrival accordingly.

You can depart anytime. Generally, there are no inclusions on the tour on the last day. The hotel check-out time is usually 1100 hours or 1200 hours.

Children under 12 are not allowed on this Jrny. Children above 12 are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Normally, yes! In some cases if the exact hotels are unavailable for any reason, we'll make sure you're put up in hotels that are equivalent to the original in terms of location and facilities. Rest assured, your stay will be as promised.

Please read through the itinerary in detail to understand the intensity of the activities planned. There are some long walks scheduled. Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 2 would be ideal.

Yes, several sections involve long scenic drives through mountain terrain. These include transfers between Tashkent–Khujand, Khujand–Seven Lakes–Panjakent, Seven Lakes–Alauddin, Alauddin–Iskanderkul, and Iskanderkul–Dushanbe. Duration can vary due to road and weather conditions.

Absolutely, a variety of vegetarian meal options will be available. Vegan options may be limited but available.

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with your booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

Tajikistan in the spring offers mild temperatures, ideal for travel. Expect daytime temperatures of 15-25°C in the cities, while mountain areas might drop to 5°C at night. Warm layers are recommended for evenings in high-altitude regions. For up to date weather information, visit weather.com before your trip begins.

We require a 35% advance payment at the time of booking.

The remaining balance needs to be paid in full at least 50 days before the date of travel

We have the following cancellation terms for this tour:

50 days or less from the date of travel: 35% cancellation charges will be levied (as per the total trip cost), the rest will be refunded to you.

35 days or less from the date of travel: 100% cancellation charges will be levied.

Interested in Specific Dates or a Private Jrny?

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